Business Law and Corporate Law

The UK's takeover framework is transparent and internationally respected, yet overseas buyers often struggle not with technical provisions but with the transaction mindset required. Understanding the critical differences between UK public M&A and other jurisdictions—from the binding nature of Rule 2.7 announcements to strict financing requirements and limited contractual protections—can mean the difference between a successful acquisition and costly missteps.

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority has published revised guidance on assessing merger efficiencies, marking a significant shift toward greater receptivity to efficiency-based arguments in merger reviews. The new provisions introduce more flexible evidentiary standards, recognize the potential role of behavioral remedies in securing efficiencies, and encourage parties to advance efficiency claims earlier in the review process without implying acceptance of competitive concerns.

The U.K.'s Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) Phase 4 brings mandatory energy assessment requirements for large businesses, with critical compliance deadlines approaching in 2026 and 2027. Understanding qualification criteria, new reporting obligations, and enforcement consequences is essential for organizations that may fall within scope, including those affected by recent structural changes or M&A activity.

Explore the latest commercial legal developments and regulatory updates from across Europe in this curated collection of insights. This edition covers key business law changes, compliance requirements, and strategic considerations affecting multiple jurisdictions from Austria to the United Kingdom.

A UK court has ruled that contracting authorities cannot rely on self-created urgency to justify direct awards under the Procurement Act 2023, and that contract award notices must independently contain accurate justification information. The decision establishes that courts will scrutinize the factual basis of urgency claims and may treat inaccurate notices as if they were never published, potentially allowing contracts to be set aside even after voluntary standstill periods.

Competition law affects every business, regardless of size or sector. Whether you’re negotiating with suppliers, submitting tenders or discussing pricing strategies, the rules governing anti-competitive behaviour are always in play. Getting it wrong can result in significant fines, director disqualification and even criminal prosecution.

A landmark High Court ruling confirms that minority shareholders can pursue unfair prejudice claims under s994 Companies Act 2006 even when their losses mirror company losses, rejecting the reflective loss principle as a barrier. The decision provides crucial clarity on shareholder remedies when directors misappropriate company funds and establishes important precedent for structuring such claims.

The Supreme Court has delivered a landmark judgment clarifying the scope of directors' duties under section 172 of the Companies Act 2006, examining whether a director can act unilaterally based on personal belief when such action conflicts with fellow directors and established corporate governance arrangements. This decision has significant implications for directors, shareholders and those involved in corporate governance, particularly in private companies and investment-backed businesses with agreed exit

In a landmark High Court ruling, two former Petrofac directors facing bribery charges have secured the right to continue receiving defence cost coverage from their insurers under a Directors and Officers policy. The decision addresses fundamental questions about when insurers can avoid policies based on alleged fraud and establishes important precedents for executive protection during criminal proceedings.

A Nottingham-based law firm has partnered with Sharewear Clothing Scheme to tackle clothing poverty and textile waste across the East Midlands. Through donation points at three offices and a sponsored school partnership, the initiative has already diverted 151kg of textiles from landfill while providing free clothing to 100 people in need. The firm's Finance Director explains why addressing clothing poverty matters and how simple donations can create meaningful social and environmental impact.

A successful charity depends on more than a powerful mission and consistent funding. Effective governance is equally as important in helping organisations navigate challenges and deliver lasting impact. The importance of effective governance is especially evident in the current climate. The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) reported in July that 97% of organisations report facing challenges over the last six months. While every charity is different, the most successful charities increasingly resemble well-run businesses – and there are a number of governance principles that can help.

George Hannah sits down with Abigail Wise, Partner at Lewis Silkin, for a candid discussion about forging a legal career without traditional advantages or conventional entry routes. From her start as a secretary to achieving partnership, Abigail examines the pivotal moments, obstacles, and systemic changes still needed in the profession.